Solar Cooking for La Gonave Haiti

by Joan
(Smithfield, VA)

We are a group of cruising sailors who have decided to make a difference for children in Haiti. As Sailors Without Borders, our boats are continuing to help citizens and schools in Haiti. This month, one of our volunteer boats, Tranquility, will carry 6 tons on deck, in special storage areas in the hulls--taking critical solar energy systems/arrays with battery banks and inverters to the schools and people of La Gonave.http://www.aaehaiti.org is the group with 300 children, and three schools.

We also will try and fix their broken wind generators (never have worked since installed years ago..they were installed backwards and burned out the alternators..so sad)..

They have nothing and need everything..to include ways to cook food on an island which has been clear cut by the mainland government.

From your site, we took plans for the simple windshield reflector solar cookers, made up 7 kits..and with your instructions (in French)--will see if a test will convince the people to try a more permanent solution using solar. Winning one of your solar cookers..would go immediately to the island..on another volunteer boat which leaves in June to re-drill the broken water wells--as much as we can. This is not a one time adventure..we want to grow green self sufficiency for them all.

Photos will be taken with the test solar cookers..we think the 7 should be able to at least heat water for a sanitary level and cook. We also sent a few cookbooks because we know its a change for them to use a slow cooking technique. Unfortunately..did not have books in French for slow cooking...

Comments for Solar Cooking for La Gonave Haiti

The first demonstrations worked well, with the Windshield Cooker, which was designed exactly as shown on your site. They were able to BAKE BREAD! Now that is success. While the kits we made were not a permanent installation, its the concept and understanding of use that is critical. However, the ease of transport, and cost may make this "kit" something to provide for the larger use in the area. Goal is to introduce an understanding the people can develop into full usage.
Also, we have introduced a pressure cooker, which again is a new idea. It could a slightly different solar cooker design it could offer efficiencies.However with 300 pairs of eyes, everything has to be carefully thought out for safety. Rocket stoves, which offer cooking during dark or low sun times, are also of interest. Photos to follow.
Because of the lack of internet connectivity, all communications are via slow but THERE Iridium satellite phone links, at 2400 Baud. For those not familar with this speed--think 1980's dial up modem...

Apr 18, 2011Rating

solar cookerby: solar power

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